St Francis set to apply for First Division licence

Dublin side St Francis have confirmed that they have held discussions with the FAI as they prepare to apply for a First Division licence for 2021.

St Francis previously reached the FAI Cup final in 1990 where they lost to Bray Wanderers in the Lansdowne Road decider.

The club moved from strength to strength after their FAI Cup fairy-tale, and they would later join the League of Ireland First Division in 1996.

However, their spell in the senior ranks was short-lived, and they would depart the League of Ireland ranks in 2001.

But this afternoon the club confirmed in a statement that they would be looking to make a return ahead of the 2021 campaign.  

“St. Francis Football Club can confirm we have made contact to the FAI regarding an expression of interest in partaking in the League of Ireland First Division,” the statement read.

“It is potentially an aim of the club to regain its League of Ireland status as part of the many development pathways we want to offer for our members of all ages and the local community that St Francis serves.

“As such we have written to the FAI to express an interest in re-joining the league of Ireland; and have asked for a meeting to consider the feasibility either now or in the future of having, not just a Senior team, but underage teams for both boys and girls, playing in the national leagues.”

St Francis’ potential return comes shortly after it was noted late last night that Treaty United would be looking to enter a side into the League of Ireland next season.

Meanwhile, the Wexford People have also said that Wexford based side Yola FC have expressed an interest in joining the league.